This week Andy Grant is joined by 9/11 first responder, writer, and podcaster, Stephen Kavalkovich, to talk about the immense pressure, and challenges faced by first responders. Stephen holds nothing back while recounting his experiences as a paramedic and drug addict, as well as his recovery and dedication to helping others.

“The greatest way we are going to help humanity is tied to the greatest pain we’ve ever felt.” ~Stephen Kavalkovich

Stephen is one of the most open men we’ve ever had on the show. His is a painful and compelling tale of self-destruction and rebirth that is all too common for first responders, and the rebirth is not guaranteed.

“When who I am was gone, I didn’t know who I was anyone.” ~Stephen Kavalkovich

What is Rescue The Rescuer Podcast?

Do You Ever Feel Like Everything Is Going Up In Flames? Firefighters, police officers, soldiers, EMS providers, and all first responders are under immense pressure and stress, day in and day out. This can lead to incredible challenges both at work and at home. Stephen Kavalkovich’s mission is to put a spotlight on these problems and help find solutions with the Rescue the Rescuer podcast and blog. He wants to help shred the shame and highlight strategies that work to alleviate and eliminate common stumbling blocks for First Responders like addiction, PTSD, relationship failure, and more.